There will be the usual clutch of cheap hotel chains and with your MOD90 you Should get a good discount - enjoy yerself man!

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Thanks mate. I thought it would be easier, but this is where all the big-ass corporations are based (Google, Microsoft), so it's proving tricky, and the MOD90 thing is a no go in this area by the looks of it. Cheers for the good wishes!

a diplomat you say? shouldn't your people be handling your travel arrangements for you then?
if you're going to be on a business trip, it wouldn't hurt to inquire if they have govt rates. then mention your MOD90. no guarantees on that, as i don't use an MOD90.
depends on what you consider cheap. expedia.com has a few listings/availabilities based on the dates. do you need to be in santa clara or would rather be in san fran due to affordability issues. there's a place called club quarters in san fran's business district. pretty good location for a decent price. business district tends to be a bit quiet at the weekends, but it's only a few blocks away from the market.
have fun in san fran.